Michael Flynn, sometimes published as Michael F. Flynn, works full time as a statistician and writes science fiction as a sideline. Nearly all of Flynn's work falls under the category of hard science fiction, although his treatment of it can be unusual since he has applied the rigor of hard science fiction to "softer" sciences such as sociology in works such as In the Country of the Blind. Much of his short fiction has appeared in Analog Science Fiction and Fact. Visit his website at m-francis.livejournal.com.

Post Event Recap

Our May Face the Fiction guest, Michael Flynn had a very nice turnout Saturday, 5/9/09 at Borders Garden State Plaza Mall. Being a prize-winning bestseller, Mr. Flynn had fans in the seats long before his scheduled 8p presentation! We had to ask the store for more chairs.

Michael Flynn is an American statistician and science fiction author. He was also quite humorous and poked fun at himself and fandom. The majority of Mr. Flynn's work falls under the category of hard science fiction. Much of his short fiction has appeared in Analog Science Fiction and Fact. He was shocked when only three or so hands went up when he asked who reads Analog. He then promptly told those who were not familiar with Analog that they could not listen to the answer - lol.

Mr. Flynn discussed his beginnings with much humor thrown in. He told us about his break into writing (he got into a magazine - that he was editor of - lol). When asked how he would have felt if he had gotten a rejection notice, he glibly answered, "I'd imagine not too good. That would've been bad."

He discussed his journey to prize-winning author by going through his book in chronological order (I'll list his works at the end of the recap). He talked about each book. He told us what he liked or changed and how when trying to break into writing, you'd have to learn how to edit - a lot. He explained the emotional links to your work and that you have to be prepared for rejection/editing and comments. It's what makes your work better.

At one point, Mr. Flynn stopped to tell us about his granddaughter who had just won first place in a writing contest. He then very proudly pointed her out as she was trying to discreetly look at manga. She hid, but very proud grandpa's work was done!

Mr. Flynn opened the floor up to questions and was promptly flooded with them. Bill and Mr. Flynn had a nice chat about Pennsylvania (we were told that there are actually three PAs - Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and the rest). Steve Rubin, Steve's father and Paul also asked lot of questions and came prepared with books for the author to sign (Paul had a huge bagful!). Mike P had some questions pertaining to writing. Mr. Flynn had an hour and half ride home, so he wrapped up, signed books and thanked us. We can't thank him enough! Thanks to Mr. Flynn for being such a great guest and for the awesome books he provides us.

Big thanks to Steve who was responsible for this guest! Thanks Steve.

Mr. Flynn headed home while we headed off to the diner where they were having free bread night ;) Chris H stole the bread out of a poor starving individual's mouth. Aureliawrapped bread to keep it away from Chris. Jo pocketed bread sticks, but not the broken bits of crackers. We also had Bill showing his pictures and regaling us with his stories. All in all, much fun.